This wine is a beast. Massive in inky color, effusive aromatics, enormous body, striking acidity and stringy tannins, it’s downright impressive how it all comes together so seamlessly. The nose is lightly high toned, with a balsamic vinegar character, and the compact palate is dense in pure black fruit. There’s tons of cola, licorice and sweet spice notes, too. This decadently extracted wine is highly oaked, but it’s done so with care and good measure. The flavors linger on the medium-length finish, showing in yet another way that this is a rather classy bottling. Drink now–2020.

— Published (4/26/2017)